cousin

noun

ˈkə-zən How to pronounce cousin (audio)
Definition of cousinnext
as in relative
a person connected with another by blood or marriage we both were surprised to learn that we are distant cousins

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of cousin The romantic Turing Test When Franky Vergara’s cousin asked him how to respond to a flirtatious Hinge message, Vergara, a 23-year-old living in San Diego, didn’t know how to help. — Sneha Dhandapani, CNN Money, 17 Oct. 2026 Dorothy recalls patrons hanging around the shop for hours, running her hands along a rainbow of silk ties, and picking up tailor pins with her cousins to pass the time. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 Oct. 2026 But that has never been the case with Prince Harry’s cousin, Princess Eugenie, who was always said to be close to Meghan. — Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 17 Oct. 2026 Well, now meet its beefier cousin, the 2028 Mercedes-AMG GT SUV, an equally powerful, ultra-fast-charging electric people-hauler. — Andrew J. Hawkins, The Verge, 17 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for cousin
Recent Examples of Synonyms for cousin
  1. relative
  2. relation
  3. family
  4. kin
  5. kinsman
Noun
  • Authorities have reportedly issued more than a dozen subpoenas, including to some of Omar’s relatives, and are examining her family’s immigration paperwork.
    — Emily Hallas, The Washington Examiner, 15 Oct. 2026
  • According to the indictment, detainees were subjected to electric shocks, simulated drowning, beatings, asphyxiation, sleep deprivation and threats against their relatives.
    — Antonio María Delgado, Miami Herald, 15 Oct. 2026
Definition of relative
Noun
  • Smith praised Carney for improving relations with a province that frequently clashed with his predecessor, Justin Trudeau, over his carbon tax and other energy policies.
    — Rob Gillies, Fortune, 17 Oct. 2026
  • The waiver also raises questions about Washington’s commitment to Ukraine as relations between the two countries deteriorate.
    — Rebecca Schneid, Time, 17 Oct. 2026
Definition of relation
Noun
  • But others criticized the tactics used and family separations.
    — Sarah Cutler, Idaho Statesman, 19 Oct. 2026
  • To support the Rose family, those interested can contribute to a GoFundMe.
    — Charles Baggarly, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 19 Oct. 2026
Definition of family
Noun
  • The Canadian Armed Forces said that additional details would be confirmed after next-of-kin have been notified.
    — Rebecca Schneid, Time, 18 Oct. 2026
  • The person — whose name has not been announced publicly pending next-of-kin notifications — was pronounced dead at the scene.
    — Toria Sheffield, PEOPLE, 12 Sep. 2026
Definition of kin
Noun
  • Records of public meetings and community newspapers feature jabs at how far these sorry kinsmen have strayed from their heritage.
    — Eythana Miller, The Dial, 23 June 2026
  • As Molineux passes by, Robin recognizes his kinsman and hears the cruel laughter of the mob.
    — John Swansburg, The Atlantic, 15 June 2026
Definition of kinsman

Browse Nearby Words

courtyards
cousin
cousins
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cousin.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/cousin. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on cousin

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about cousin

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